Event roundup: Fire Innovation Forum – digital and data skills
This session marked the launch of the forum’s 2026 activity under techUK’s MoU with the National Fire Chiefs’ Council, focusing on the role of digital and data skills in supporting the fire service. It explored approaches to building digital confidence, inclusion and capability, alongside practical challenges around user experience, accessibility and skills development.
We were joined by NFCC DDaT representatives Steve Beakhust, Gillian Fyfe and Steve Taylor, as well as Sarah Taylor (Assistant Director and Head of DDaT, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service) and Kirsty James (Digital Transformation Manager, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service).
Steve Taylor provided context to the session by highlighting the essential role of digital and data literacy within the fire service. He emphasised the importance of utilising systems effectively and recruiting people with the right skills.
Outlining Essex Fire and Rescue’s commitment to digital inclusion, Sarah described how the organisation works to ensure people feel confident and capable when using technology. She highlighted the role of the Digital Skills Officer in supporting staff and helping them develop essential skills, with a strong focus on building both competence and confidence.
She discussed the Essex Fire and Rescue digital skills standard, which covers foundational abilities such as managing emails, locating files, and staying safe online. Sarah highlighted the importance of avoiding assumptions about an individuals’ digital abilities, noting that everyone starts from different points and may need tailored support to meet these standards.
Kirsty emphasised West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue's commitment to developing digital and data literacy. Their approach includes a range of initiatives and training programmes designed to boost digital confidence, improve accessibility, and ensure that staff can use systems effectively. A key part of this work is the Change Ambassador Network (CAN), which supports the testing and rollout of new technology while helping embed good user experience and design principles across the service.
She also highlighted ongoing challenges, including gaps in user experience design, accessibility, and general confidence with digital tools. To address these, West Yorkshire is strengthening training and support, ensuring systems are intuitive and inclusive, and empowering staff to develop the skills they need to navigate an increasingly digital workplace.
You can access Kirsty’s slides here. (TBC)
Following this, participants engaged in a thoughtful discussion on the challenges and strategies for improving accessibility in digital resources, user experience, and inclusive procurement, focusing on practical needs, user involvement, and balancing standard with custom solutions for fire services.
Junior Programme Manager - Justice and Emergency Services, techUK
Fran is the Junior Programme Manager for the Justice and Emergency Services (JES) Programme, supporting project delivery, stakeholder engagement, and policy development across portfolios including law enforcement, justice, and the fire sector.
Fran joined techUK in May 2025 as a Programme Team Assistant for the Public Sector Markets Programmes before progressing to her current role.
Prior to joining techUK, she gained experience working across local government and VAWG (Violence Against Women and Girls) charities, where she developed a deep understanding of public service and advocacy.
Justice and Emergency Services Programme activities
The techUK Justice and Emergency Services Programme represents tech firms operating in the public safety, criminal justice, and blue light markets. We create strong relationships between members and public sector customers, encouraging industry engagement, and unlocking innovation. Visit the programme page here.
Policing enters a new era: technology at the heart of reform
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Our members develop strong networks, build meaningful partnerships and grow their businesses as we all work together to create a thriving environment where industry, government and stakeholders come together to realise the positive outcomes tech can deliver.
Head of Programme - Justice and Emergency Services and Economic Crime Lead, techUK
Dave Evans
Head of Programme - Justice and Emergency Services and Economic Crime Lead, techUK
Dave is a former senior police officer with the City of London Police, bringing extensive experience as a Detective and senior leader across frontline operations and multi-agency partnerships at regional and national levels.
He has led and supported responses to major national incidents, including mass casualty events, counter-terrorism operations and large-scale public disorder, working closely with partners across the criminal justice sector.
Alongside his public service, Dave has also held leadership roles in the private sector, managing projects focused on intellectual property and licensing. His combined experience across both sectors gives him a deep understanding of how collaboration between service providers and end users can strengthen resilience and trust.
Cinzia joined techUK in August 2023 as the Justice and Emergency Services (JES) Programme Manager.
The JES programme represents suppliers, championing their interests in the blue light and criminal justice markets, whether they are established entities or newcomers seeking to establish their presence.
Prior to joining techUK, Cinzia worked in the third and public sectors, managing projects related to international trade and social inclusion.
Junior Programme Manager - Justice and Emergency Services, techUK
Fran Richiusa
Junior Programme Manager - Justice and Emergency Services, techUK
Fran is the Junior Programme Manager for the Justice and Emergency Services (JES) Programme, supporting project delivery, stakeholder engagement, and policy development across portfolios including law enforcement, justice, and the fire sector.
Fran joined techUK in May 2025 as a Programme Team Assistant for the Public Sector Markets Programmes before progressing to her current role.
Prior to joining techUK, she gained experience working across local government and VAWG (Violence Against Women and Girls) charities, where she developed a deep understanding of public service and advocacy.
